Our Mission
CTSE is non-profit organization dedicated to helping address stress and trauma, and the issues that cause them, through evidence-based training programs & consultation.
Our Story
The Center for Trauma & Stress Education (CTSE) was founded to bring evidence-based, practical tools for healing to the communities and organizations that need them most.
Our work began with a research and training collaboration born at Harvard Medical School between Drs. Cynthia Kaplan, Alan Fruzzetti, and Luciana Payne, and has since grown into a national effort, facilitated by acclaimed trainer and consultant Ryan Oelrich, to support teams facing the everyday and extraordinary impacts of stress and trauma.
Today, CTSE serves nonprofits, schools, healthcare providers, and mission-driven companies through accessible, trauma-informed education designed to foster resilience, restore connection, and strengthen communities.
Learn more about how and why we developed the STEP Course (4min.)
Hear from the Creators
CTSE In Action
The Stress & Trauma Education Program (STEP)
The Learning & Engagement Action Program (LEAP)
Custom Consultation
You’re in Good Company:
United Federation of Teachers
Spokane Public Library
Providence Health
Thrive International
New York City Office of Labor Relations
Volunteers of America
Brown University
U.S. Navy
Eastern Washington University
Girl Scouts
Catholic Charities of Eastern Washington
YWCA
The People Behind CTSE
CTSE brings together experienced clinicians, facilitators, board leaders, and staff who share a commitment to making evidence-based tools practical, accessible, and useful in everyday life.
Our team brings expertise in stress, trauma, communication, relationships, behavioral health, education, and community leadership.
Your Facilitators
Ryan Oelrich
Executive Director & Lead Facilitator
Dr. Cynthia Kaplan
Founder, Board Member & Facilitator
Dr. Luciana Payne
Board Vice Chair & Facilitator
CTSE Reports
View the organizational reports we provide to the board and donors.
Our Partners
CTSE partnered with Priority Spokane, a nonprofit leader in Washington State, to develop and evaluate the Stress and Trauma Education Program during the pandemic. As part of our evaluation and improvement process, Priority Spokane and its 27 member organizations delivered over 60 STEP programs to organizations across Washington State while collecting pre and post feedback surveys helping further develop the material and implementation.
Community Partner
Founding Partner
Get Started
Still considering options, or are you ready to start building a solution for your team?
We’re ready to work with you.
Direct Contact
(401)-330-0442
info@ctseprograms.org
